Tamiya 1/20 1977 Lotus Type 78 GP Race Car Kit

Lotus has brought a number of innovations to F1 racing since they entered their first race in 1958. The introduction of ground effect cars, the result of their aerodynamics research, was one of the highlights. In 1977, Lotus introduced the Type 78 (base model for the Type 79) which had a slim monocoque chassis and wide side pontoons with under surfaces like inverted aircraft wings. Airfow beneath the side pontoons thus enabled the body to generate downforce for stronger traction and faster cornering speeds. Mario Andretti and Gunnar Nilsson drove the car in the 1977 season, and despite early season troubles, they went on to take 4 and 1 wins respectively to prove the car's potential.